For many years leading up to 2021, there was much support for legalizing marijuana. After much consideration, in 2021, marijuana was legalized in New York. While some New Yorkers find this legalization beneficial, it is important to note that since 2021, emergency rooms across New York have seen an increase in cannabis-related visits.
Let’s dive into the reasons why there is a direct relationship between the legalization of marijuana and the increasing number of ER visits.
It has been determined that the THC content in marijuana dispensaries is much higher than what was commonly found in marijuana prior to legalization. As a result of this, new users of cannabis are not fully educated on how much they should use at any given time. To compare, let’s say as an example that alcohol was just becoming legalized. Someone who may have had a beer in the past may not realize that one or two shots of vodka is much stronger. In other words, users of marijuana, even if they are using it in a legal manner, may not be educated or informed on how much they could safely use without having adverse effects.
Some of the side effects from being exposed to too much THC include nausea and vomiting, becoming dehydrated, and changes in mental status. This is extremely concerning, because children have also been affected by this. If you are experiencing negative side effects, it could turn into Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), which is a disorder caused by long-term marijuana use. Symptoms of CHS tend to last for one to two days; however, if you use cannabis again, the symptoms can come back.
As briefly touched upon above, cannabis use is also increasing in children and those 17 and under. In fact, emergency room visits for those under 17 have risen several hundred percent in just the past few years. At Victory Recovery Partners, our Massapequa Park location offers adolescent treatment options. We can help your teen overcome their addiction and substance use disorders, including marijuana.
An important point to note is that marijuana can have negative long-term effects beyond just CHS. For example, did you know that according to the substance use and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), marijuana use could lower one’s IQ by as much as 8 points if consumption started regularly at a young age? Marijuana use also can cause depression, anxiety, and psychotic episodes. Your driving skills can also become impaired, similar to the results you would see from drinking alcohol.
The important point to takeaway here is that you must be educated on the risks and dangers associated with marijuana before using it. Emergency room visits are increasing, as users don’t fully understand what they’re consuming. Through proper education, you will be able to better understand what type of cannabis you should use, if any at all.
Victory Recovery Partners, a network of eight addiction-recovery centers on Long Island, New York, specializes in outpatient treatment for those with substance use disorders and addictions. By providing total care under one roof, including medication-assisted treatment, psychiatric, wellness, and behavioral health services, we ensure our patients are receiving the best care possible. For more information on Victory, visit our website.